Thomas Hardye joins Young Chamber Initiative

The Thomas Hardye School has become the first in West Dorset to join the new Young Chamber Programme, linking business and education.This is a pioneering initiative being led by Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI).

Winfrith-based Atlas Elektronik UK has sponsored the school’s membership, to put it on the map along with 12 schools and colleges countywide. Apprentices Ben Lawrence and Charlotte Cox, who started at Atlas Elektronik six months ago, gave a talk to sixth formers at the launch of the programme at the Thomas Hardye School.

Mike Foley, Thomas Hardye Headteacher, said: “Atlas Elektronik’s approach to apprenticeships is exemplary.“It is important that students really do consider all of their choices and it is great to have two shining examples of Atlas Elektronik’s apprenticeship scheme at our launch event. We very grateful to Atlas Elektronik for sponsoring our membership of the Programme and we look forward to developing a close relationship with them.”

The school has signed up to the Young Chamber Programme as part of its ongoing work to forge closer ties with business and inform students of their career options.

Head Mr Foley, Head of Year 13 Katie Taylor and Careers Co-ordinator Catriona Brady
welcomed DCCI Young Chamber Programme Co-ordinator Will Montgomery and the Atlas Elektronik delegation to the school. As well as Ben and Charlotte, they included Head of HR Russell Warren and Learning and Development Officer Emily Gollop. Ben, 20, and Charlotte, 19, both taking NVQs at level 3 and HNCs at level 4, outlined their career paths at Atlas Elektronik and told sixth formers about the benefits of apprenticeships. Charlotte, who is an engineering apprentice in the sonar department, said: “Apprenticeships can be the best way to gain hands on experience and gain qualifications rather than going down the degree route.”

Ben, who is an engineering and mechatronics apprentice, added: “For students considering their future, it important that they understand that apprenticeships can be a very positive career choice.”

Atlas Eletronik UK, which employs more than 200 people at Winfrith Technology Centre has stepped up its apprenticeship programme and will have 21 following its next intake in September. The company supplies science and technology solutions – including many in marine research and development – for such customers as the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Navy. Mr Warren said: “Schemes such as Young Chamber help bridge the gap between education and the workplace. They can support the development of employees of the future with benefits for companies and the community. It is a pleasure to be involved.”

DCCI, which is Dorset’s leading business support organisation, launched the Young Chamber Programme last October.